SPRINGFIELD - As the ongoing teacher shortage persists, State Senator Napoleon Harris, III is leading a measure to allow retired teachers to return to the classroom for a longer period of time. 

“The ongoing teacher shortage is affecting our children but allowing retired teachers to bring their expertise back to the classroom for longer would help students thrive,” Harris said. 

Senate Bill 3201 allows retired teachers to return to the classroom for 150 days or 750 paid hours. Currently, retired teachers are only allowed back in the classroom 120 days per year. 

“The teacher shortage is a burden that our educational system is currently having, and allowing retired teachers to return to schools for a longer period of time will reduce that burden.”

On Tuesday, Senate Bill 3201 passed the Senate Education Committee and will now head to the Senate floor for further debate.